Wednesday, March 30, 2011

COFFEE TABLES

Coffee tables are difficult to design and even more difficult to find in the factories.  I like to put my feet up on mine - even sit on it when necessary.  It's also nice to have a drawer to hide the numerous remotes we all have. 

The first group are Chinese inspired.  

 Paint the opium table 





This is one we designed after an opium bed and removed the railings.  I love the weight of the design  -  I also like the carved legs and the cut out areas to achieve it's detail. 


This is not solid wood - wood veneer will look this way. But it prevents it from splitting. 

Take 2 small side tables to create the coffee table.  3 is also a good number - odds are always better - especially for a 3 seater sofa. 
This is another large ottoman coffee table we made - using Faux leather - so the kids wouldn't ruin it and keep the cost down. 
Nesting tables in front instead of on the side.  

The look of French.  Either Shabby Chic or solid color.  These could both be in a solid brown stain also. 

Great Look and room for magazines. 


Trunks for a tight and cozy spot. 
I love the simplicity of this.  It's all about the beauty of the wood. 

Now think - CHINESE BENCH - which will have more character.  Also good for small places. 


 I don't know if my factory can do this - but I want one!
Traditional Home
How functional is this!

Here's one of our best sellers from the factory.  First you add your favorite collectibles... seashells, photos, Chinese art brushes, etc - and then you add the glass (which comes with).  Make it any color.   The sides open up for extra storage. 


Saturday, March 26, 2011

TAN with BROWNS



In Small places I like to position a desk next to the bed.   The tables don't have to be the same on either side - but should be the same height.   Notice the Chinese bench at the end of the bed.
This is the color palette in my own house.  It's neutral enough that if I get board - I can change the accent colors.





The use of white in the canvas sofas or the patterned curtains softens the room.  The use of the wicker blinds and/or screens give it a casual beachy feel.  Also note the trunks used as coffee tables. 





white white walls and white lamp
brown wicker chairs - skirted linen table in the back- white printed breezy curtains- rustic coffee tables - and of course, always add plants.  They make a room feel alive. 




Eclectic drama is added with the Zebra and cow prints. Also the dark golden painted walls.   I would lighten up these rooms with cream linen curtains that can blow in the breeze and drape on the floor. Instead of the dark shades - I would add a light linen shade that will cast more light. 


Sunday, March 6, 2011

Blue and White Living Room

I love the clean fresh look of blue and white. There's something about it that just about everyone loves. Reminiscent of a seaside cottage - but also an old elegant estate viewed in the summertime. 

Blue and white theme can work with any color;  apple green, red, mustard yellow, gray, black, ........



CRISP - CLEAN -  UNCLUTTERED.  Love the drapes with the contrast edging on top and bottom. 


 I like the use of tan with the blue and white - using wicker furniture or tortoise shell blinds or a sisal looking rug.  Very Ralph Lauren Feeling......




Years ago when I lived in Hong Kong I didn't realize I had collected so many pieces.  At one time it was scattered through out the house until the decorating magazines taught me to highlight it in one room.  My bedroom is where they all ended.  

 Add yellow to the blue and white - very French.  Would rather see the color of yellow go deeper into Goldenrod. 
 Notice with the blue walls - everything else is white. 
 Painted Walls are another level to the blue and white.  Going Blue on the walls is very bold challenge - I love the one above using the taupe.  Then adding artwork in the abstract format. A contemporary spin on the combination. 
This only works because of the all the beautiful wood detail. 




 One of my favorites.   Notice all the Chinese Accessories!  You would have to change the hue of blue to add the blue and white porcelain.  As is - it's a bit off. 
 Take a white cabinet - remove the doors - Paint the inside and add the dishes.  Simple!
LOVE LOVE LOVE..  I love the look of old dark wood with blue and white.  It's so RICH!


I like the old style of porcelain - not as white....  






Shade of blue and white - dark and light



I'm selling lamps now.  I have a few blue and white in the collection .  This one is hand painted  - not a stencil.